THEATRE REVIEW: THE RAGS TO RICHES TALE OF ME & MY GIRL PERFORMED BY THE ISLAND SAVOYARDS

There were laughs aplenty for the story of the born and bred Cockney who finds himself heir to an Earldom in the latest Island Savoyards production. As the overture started, on a rainy Thursday at Shanklin Theatre, I knew I’d be smiling before long as the melody swept over the audience to signal the start of what was ultimately a whimsical and jovial evening of entertainment. The Island Savoyards have a high bar of expectation set, and this musical didn’t disappoint. The audience is whisked off to Hareford Hall, where the family are gathered in eager anticipation to learn who is the late 13th Earl’s long-lost heir, recently located by the family solicitor. Cue complete turmoil and frivolity on learning that the heir is indeed Bill Snibson, cockney born and bred, and as far from a ‘proper gentleman’ as the family could imagine! A rags to riches tale, the musical is packed with song and dance numbers, comedy and heart. Choreographer Maurice Kachuk evidenced his expertise with an array of delightfully polished numbers. The ensemble dazzled on stage in every number, and not once did I see a foot or arm out of place. No mean feat! Rob Bingham took on the mantle of Bill Snibson with furore, demonstrating he is indeed a triple threat. His comic timing was impeccable – numerous times he had this reviewer in stitches of laughter, stealing the scenes he was in. Complementing Rob was Alice Burton-Jones as his love interest, Sally Smith. Endearing and enchanting in equal measure, Alice captured the essence of this character perfectly. Hers and Rob’s duets were heart-warming, and their dance routines spot-on. Dianne Aspinall and Paul Stevens took on the roles of Maria, Duchess of Dene and Sir John Tremayne with gusto, proving once again to audiences what brilliant talents they both are in their singing, improvisation and comic timing. Hanna Emily Nixon and Simon Apsey played on and off again couple Lady Jacqueline Carstone and The Hon. Gerald Bolingbroke. Hanna had some risqué scenes that stood out due to her brilliant facial expressions and physical comedy, whilst Simon countered her well with his snooty and brattish characterisation. It was evident that all members of the cast were thoroughly enjoying themselves throughout, and the many smaller parts all added to the audience enjoyment. To mention a few favourites – Rodger Hooper’s performance as deaf Sir Jasper Tring was hilarious, as was Andy Kay’s Herbert Parchester with his enduring energetic skipping and advice as the family solicitor. Furthermore, the chorus embraced their moments on stage with lively performances both in voice and movement. Well done to Musical Director Steve Burton, assistant Kim Ball and the whole orchestra for supporting the cast onstage with beautifully played music. The sets and costumes were of the standard you now expect from a Savoyards musical: lavish, striking and superior for what we mustn’t forget is an amateur production (though easy to think you’re watching something professional!). Whilst a few lines were lost and the pace sometimes slow, perhaps due to opening night nerves, this didn’t deter from the laughs that were aplenty. Director Peter Reed must surely be feeling proud of his cast for their excellent performances throughout. Review written by Bryony Bishop